Deborah OConnor October 8, 2013

 
We have all found ourselves in unusual or unsettling situations. While Icannot address every one of them, let’s go over a few more common areas.

Grooming Emergencies.

• If you have alate-afternoon meeting with a client and are sporting a five-o’clockshadow, definitely have your razor with you and plan on shaving beforeyou meet.
• Never take medication in front of a client or acustomer. Whether it be allergy medication, insulin for diabetes, orsimple aspirin, always do this in private.
• Discussions aboutyour health are likely to make a client feel uncomfortable or uneasy. If your time to take a medicine dosage is in the middle of a meeting andcannot be avoided, simply excuse yourself. Remember, you are trying toinspire confidence.
• Treat hygiene problems with discretion. This can be tricky, but try to establish personal rapport before broaching a delicate subject. A good way to do this is to share a story withsomeone about a personal hygiene situation in your past. If you focus on yourself, it will put the other person at ease.
• Always havebreath mints handy. Unfortunately, many people are unaware of their ownbad breath. If you feel that you can say something to a colleague thatyou are close to, do so in a non-threatening way. If you cannot saysomething to a colleague, offer a breath mint in the act of taking oneyourself.

Always be careful how you announce your pregnancy.

• Women have a bias to deal with regarding pregnancy, especially in amale-dominated company. Rather than blurting it out, take your time tothink things out and formulate a plan. Obviously, let your manager knowfirst. It’s important to be well prepared and to have a plan of action.How long do you intend to continue working, how long will you take offafter the birth, when will you return, etc. Be aware of company policyand talk to some of the other women who have been in the same situation. You may be able to learn some important things that can help you.

Handle sensitive issues with discretion.

• Be careful about bringing up controversial issues. Unfortunately, manypeople are intolerant about politics, religion, drugs, alcohol, andsexual orientation. You don’t want to alienate yourself and you neverknow who is prejudiced or ultra-conservative. Never stereotype peopleand try to be open-minded. These are all personal subjects and you would be wise to keep your opinions to yourself, especially if you work for a very conservative company.

With a little extra thought and perseverance you can handle unusual situations with flair and aplomb.

Deborah O’Connor is a social strategist and founder and president of Successful Image LLC with offices in Columbia and Atlanta. She offers training and seminars on image management, workplace etiquette, and social skillsnecessary to succeed in life professionally and personally. Contactat:  [email protected]        www.successfulimage.biz